Water activity

San Diego: Whale Watching Tour

4.5 / 5

70 reviews

Activity provider: Flagship Cruises and Events.
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    Water activity

    San Diego: Whale Watching Tour

    Activity provider: Flagship Cruises and Events.

    4.5

    70 reviews

    Likely to sell out

    From US$ 52 per person

    Likely to sell out

    Get an up-close look at whales with San Diego's most experienced crew. Between December and April, approximately 20,000 gray whales migrate along the coast of San Diego.

    About this activity

    Free cancellation
    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
    Reserve now & pay later
    Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
    Covid-19 precautions
    Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
    Duration 3.5 hours
    Check availability to see starting times.
    Live tour guide
    English
    Wheelchair accessible

    Experience

    Highlights
    • Get the chance to see gray whales as they migrate along the San Diego coast
    • Learn about the ocean's ecosystem through real-time commentary
    • Find out about the sights and creatures unique to your cruise
    • Discover the beauty of San Diego Bay on a two-story whale watching yacht
    Full description
    Marvel at the amazing views of San Diego Bay as you look out for sightings of marine wildlife including dolphins, sea lions, gray whales, and more. Your tour will be led by ocean experts as you get a deeper understanding of the ocean ecosystem and the sea creatures that live in it. Discover the San Diego coast on a two-story whale watching yacht, featuring 360-degree views from the main level and upper sundeck, multiple restrooms, and free guest WiFi. You will follow the whale migration path to bring you up close for the best sighting spots, which change every day. Early in the season, whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. On their return trip, northbound whales swim further out, up to 9-12 miles off the coast. Make sure to wear layers as it can get pretty cool on the bay and don't forget to wear your sunscreen and hat while on this excursion. Bring your camera to capture all the memories you'll make on this exciting adventure.
    Includes
    • Cruise on a two-story whale watching yacht with 360-degree views
    • Free guest WiFi
    • Commentary and tour led by ocean experts
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Food and drink
    Not suitable for
    • People prone to seasickness

    Select participants and date

    Participants

    Date

    Meeting point

    Please check in at the "Flagship" ticket booth before departure.

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    Important information

    What to bring

    • Warm clothing
    • Sun hat
    • Camera
    • Sunscreen
    • Binoculars
    • Thermal clothing
    • Face mask or protective covering

    Not allowed

    • Smoking
    • Pets (assistance dogs allowed)

    Know before you go

    • See whales or you'll get to go out again for free on your next trip
    • Children 3 and under ride for free
    • If you are prone to seasickness, consider medication in advance
    •  A snack bar is not available onboard
    • The vessel and interior main deck are wheelchair accessible but the exterior top deck and restrooms are not
    Customer reviews

    Overall rating

    4.5 /5

    based on 70 reviews

    Review summary

    • Guide
      4.8/5
    • Transportation
      4.8/5
    • Value for money
      4.6/5

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    Star rating:

    Excellent experience. We went on the 3.5-4 hour tour as a family, with my three kids (10, 6, 4 years old). We saw 9 whales and a huge pod of dolphins…a very memorable experience for all of us. The boat guide did a great job moderating and explaining what to look out for. Additionally, the boat was very spacious and clean

    March 31, 2023

    G
    GetYourGuide traveler Verified booking

    Helpful?

    What an amazing tour of the ocean wild life! Captain Brendan and his crew were top notch. There was education along with pure enjoyment. We saw four whales and dozens of dolphin—many swimming right alongside the boat. We were able to move throughout the boat to get the best views. The crew was great about directing the passengers to the ocean activity and amenities of the boat. It was good to have beverages and some snack/food options for purchase. I felt the ticket price was very fair for the value of the tour. Thanks for a great experience!

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    March 31, 2023

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    GetYourGuide traveler Verified booking

    Helpful?

    As expected. On schedule, clean vessel, good crew etc. The weather was excellent as well. The whale was a bit uncooperative, making only a couple of fleeting appearances. The dolphins sort of made up for it though. Seeing both the USS Nimitz and USS Carl Vinston was a bonus.

    March 31, 2023

    G
    GetYourGuide traveler Verified booking

    Helpful?

    Product ID: 208806

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